Ernesto was expected to keep moving toward the west for the next 24 to 36 hours, with its center moving over the southern Bay of Campeche Wednesday night and early Thursday.

Extreme Weather 2012

A hurricane warning is in effect for Veracruz to Chilitepec, Mexico.

A hurricane watch is in effect from north of Veracruz to Barra de Nautla, and a tropical storm warning is in effect for the same area, as well as east of Chilitepec to Campeche along the Gulf Coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Ernesto is expected to strengthen some overnight, and then weaken as it moves over land by Thursday night.